OUTDOOR LIVING
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CONTENTS
ARTS & CULTURE P8
FOOD & DRINK P16
RESTAURANTS P26
SHOPPING P46
SERVICES P54
FAMILY & PETS P66
HEALTH & BEAUTY P72
EDITORS’ PICKS P80
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Editor’s Note
Just when I thought I knew everything about Santa Cruz, having lived here long enough to have had three dogs with complete life spans, I see great recommendations in this issue that I never knew. There’s a man-made waterfall near Medicine Buddha? Wow. I’ve been there a million times and didn’t know it. A massage place where you keep your clothes on? Had no idea. A shop with a major selection of beans? Bro…
The thing about Santa Cruz is we have so many newcomers, between refugees from red states and freshpersons at two colleges, there’s a constant
STAFF
turnover. We all need tips about what’s cool and what’s hot. That’s what we give you in the Best Of issue. A tour guide to the best things in your Santa Cruz life in one place—in print and online—that you won’t find anywhere else.
We should charge for it, but we don’t. I’ll nominate this for best guide to the best things in Santa Cruz. Read it, keep it, put it on your coffee table and start your treasure hunt for the best of the best.
I bet no matter how long you’ve been here, you’ll see some things you didn’t know.
BRAD KAVA | EDITOR
Sue Lamothe Danielle Ratliff
Office manager/Ad assistant
Danielle Ratliff
Accounting
Aurene Pokorny Circulation Manager
Shannen Craig Cover Design Danilo Design
ARTS & CULTURE
P winners
Art Event
OPEN STUDIOS
SILVER
CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL
BRONZE
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE
Art Supply Store
PALACE ART & OFFICE SUPPLY
SILVER
LENZ ARTS
BRONZE
THE ABBOT’S THRIFT
Artist
YESHE JACKSON
SILVER
AMADEO BACHAR
BRONZE
MATTIE LEEDS
Bookstore
BOOKSHOP SANTA CRUZ
SILVER
TWO BIRDS BOOKS
BRONZE
BAD ANIMAL
Charity Event
REDWOOD MOUNTAIN FAIRE
SILVER
SIP FOR SECOND HARVEST
BRONZE
GRIND OUT HUNGER
ClasSical Music Group
SANTA CRUZ SYMPHONY
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY YOUTH SYMPHONY
BRONZE
CABRILLO SYMPHONIC CHORUS
Comedy Night
DNA’S COMEDY LAB AND EXPERIMENTAL THEATRE
SILVER
THE CROW’S NEST
BRONZE
DON FLYNN’S COMEDY REVIEW, FELTON MUSIC HALL
Dance Company
MOTION PACIFIC
SILVER
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF DANCE
BRONZE
DANCEOGRAPHY SANTA CRUZ
Dance LesSons
MOTION PACIFIC
SILVER
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF DANCE
BRONZE
DANCEOGRAPHY SANTA CRUZ
Festival (Art/Film)
CAPITOLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL
SILVER
WATSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL
BRONZE
BBQUEER FEST
Festival (Music)
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN SOL FESTIVAL
SILVER
REDWOOD MOUNTAIN FAIRE
BRONZE
CABRILLO FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
Food Event
SANTA CRUZ RESTAURANT WEEK
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ GREEK FESTIVAL
BRONZE
SANTA CRUZ CLAM CHOWDER COOK-OFF
Live Music Venue
MOE’S ALLEY
SILVER
KUUMBWA JAZZ
BRONZE
FELTON MUSIC HALL
Local Band
ALEX LUCERO BAND
SILVER
EXTRA LARGE
BRONZE
JIVE MACHINE
PHOTO:
ARTS & CULTURE
Media Personality
RALPH ANYBODY, KPIG
SILVER
OZZY FREAK OF BOULDER CREEK, KBCZ
BRONZE
CHARLIE LANGE, KSQD
Mural/Public Art
SHOPPER’S CORNER, JOHN PUGH
SILVER
LENZ ARTS, JIMBO PHILLIPS
BRONZE
WELCOME TO BOULDER CREEK, JOHNNIE’S SUPER
Museum
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY (MAH)
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
BRONZE
BIGFOOT DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Music LesSons
MUSICALME, MUSIC TOGETHER
SILVER
MOUNTAIN MUSIC SCHOOL
BRONZE
ZACK OLSEN DRUMS
Musician
ALEX LUCERO
SILVER
PATTI MAXINE
BRONZE
PETE NOVEMBRE
ALEX LUCERO
PHOTO: FILE
ARTS & CULTURE
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE
Place to Dance MOE’S ALLEY
SILVER
ABBOTT SQUARE MARKET
BRONZE
BLUE LAGOON
Place to Shoot Pool
FAST EDDY’S BILLIARDS
SILVER
SURF CITY BILLIARDS
BRONZE
BRADY’S YACHT CLUB
Radio Station
KPIG 107.5
SILVER
KZSC 88.1
BRONZE
KSQD 90.7
Retail Art GalL ery
LUMEN GALLERY
SILVER
ROOTSTOCK COLLECTIVE
BRONZE
M.K. CONTEMPORARY ART
Theater Company
SANTA CRUZ SHAKESPEARE
SILVER
CABRILLO STAGE
BRONZE
MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY THEATER
PHOTO: KEVIN LOHMAN
Kindness Respect Integrity
• Sciton Halo and BBL Hero Laser
• Restorative Facials
• Botox and Dysport
• Juvederm and RHA Fillers
• Elite CoolSculpting
• Potenza RF MicroNeedling
• Stem Cell & Exosome Therapy
• Safe Menopause Treatments
• Testosterone Replacement
• Semaglutide Weight Loss
• IV Therapy and Vitamin Shots
FOOD & DRINK
PACIFIC COOKIE COMPANY
P winners
Acai Bowl
SAMBA ROCK AÇAÍ CAFE
JUICES
Bagels
BAGELRY DOWNTOWN
SILVER
BAGELRY SOQUEL
BRONZE
BAGELRY SEABRIGHT
Bakery
GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA SILVER
BAKERY
Bar
MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY
ALLEY
Bar FoOd
PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE
NEST
Bartender
JOSH YOUNGBLOOD, OSWALD
SILVER
JASMINE SIEMER-DUNBAR, VIM
CLIFF NELSON, BITTERSWEET BISTRO
Beer Garden
BEER THIRTY BOTTLE SHOP & POUR HOUSE
SILVER HUMBLE
BREWING CO.
WOODHOUSE BLENDING & BREWING
Bread Bakery
COMPANION WESTSIDE
SILVER
GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA BRONZE COMPANION APTOS
PHOTO:
TARMO
HANNULA
FOOD & DRINK
11TH HOUR DOWNTOWN
Brewery
SANTE ADAIRIUS RUSTIC ALES
SILVER
HUMBLE SEA BREWING CO.
BRONZE
DISCRETION BREWING
Butcher Counter
SHOPPER’S CORNER
SILVER
CORRALITOS MARKET & SAUSAGE CO.
BRONZE
FREEDOM MEAT LOCKERS
Caterer
BUSY BEES CAFE & CATERING
SILVER
APTOS ST. BBQ
BRONZE
KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR
Cheese Selection
CHEESE SHOP 831
SILVER
STAFF OF LIFE, SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
SHOPPER’S CORNER
Chocolatier
DONNELLY CHOCOLATES
SILVER
ASHBY CONFECTIONS
BRONZE
CHOCOLAT
Coffeehouse
11TH HOUR DOWNTOWN
SILVER THE UGLY MUG
BRONZE
VERVE COFFEE ROASTERS
CoO kies
PACIFIC COOKIE COMPANY
SILVER
GAYLES BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA
BRONZE
BUTTERY BAKERY
Desserts (Bakery)
GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA
SILVER
BUTTERY BAKERY
BRONZE
THE FARM BAKERY, CAFE & GIFT SHOP
Donuts
FERRELL’S DONUTS, WESTSIDE
SILVER
DUNLAP’S DONUTS
BRONZE
FERRELL’S DONUT HOUSE, OCEAN STREET
Fancy Cocktails
VENUS SPIRITS COCKTAILS & KITCHEN, WESTSIDE
SILVER FRONT & COOPER
BRONZE
MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY
Farmers’ Market
APTOS FARMERS MARKET AT CABRILLO COLLEGE
SILVER THE LIVE OAK MARKET
BRONZE THE DOWNTOWN MARKET
Grocery Store
SHOPPER’S CORNER
SILVER
NEW LEAF COMMUNITY MARKET, CAPITOLA
BRONZE
STAFF OF LIFE, SOQUEL AVENUE
Grocery Store (Natural)
STAFF OF LIFE, SOQUEL AVENUE
SILVER
NEW LEAF COMMUNITY MARKET, CAPITOLA
BRONZE
WILD ROOTS MARKET, FELTON
Happy Hour
HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
SILVER
THE CROW’S NEST
BRONZE
MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY
Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt
MARIANNE’S ICE CREAM, OCEAN STREET
SILVER
MARIANNE’S ICE CREAM, APTOS
BRONZE
THE PENNY ICE CREAMERY, DOWNTOWN
PHOTO: TARMO
HANNULA
FOOD & DRINK
International Market
SILVER
AMAZON JUICES
ANNIE’S PIMENTO SPREAD, NEW LEAF COMMUNITY MARKETS
FOOD & DRINK
Pub
Wine
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
Offering gynecology, hormone support, fertility care, peri/menopausal support, and genetic testing to guide you through every stage of life
Best Midwife
Dana Ramsey, CNM Best Therapist
Founder and owner of Nurture Women’s Health & Fertility, dedicated to providing integrative, patient-centered care for women through every stage of life
Ila “Bree” Bode, LMFT
Licensed therapist and Certified Perinatal Mental Health
Professional specializing in anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, and life transitions
est. 2020
Helping with pregnancy recovery, menopause transitions, pelvic pain, incontinence, and overall pelvic wellness through expert physical therapy Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Providing individual and couples counseling, specializing in perinatal mental health, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma-informed care Psychotherapy
A root-cause approach to metabolic health, hormone balance, gut health, and sustainable weight management using nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and pharmaceuticals.
RESTAURANTS
P winners
Appetizers
HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
THE CROW’S NEST
Barbecue
APTOS ST. BBQ
SILVER MISSION ST. BBQ BRONZE
COLE’S BAR-B-Q
Breakfast (Aptos/Soquel)
PRETTY GOOD ADVICE
SILVER RED APPLE CAFÉ
BRONZE THE FARM BAKERY, CAFE & GIFTS
Breakfast (Capitola)
GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA
SILVER
BUSY BEES CAFE & CATERING
BRONZE AVENUE CAFE
Breakfast (Santa Cruz)
WALNUT AVENUE CAFE
SILVER HARBOR CAFE
BRONZE ZACHARY’S
Breakfast (Scotts Valley/SLV)
HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE
SILVER
AUNTIE MAME’S BRONZE TROUT FARM INN
Breakfast (Watsonville)
COWBOY’S CORNER CAFE
SILVER RED APPLE CAFE
BRONZE BEACH STREET CAFE
Brunch
HARBOR CAFE
SILVER THE CRÊPE PLACE
BRONZE SÜDA
HARBOR CAFE
PHOTO: TARMO
HANNULA
RESTAURANTS
Burger (Aptos/Soquel)
PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE
SILVER
BETTY BURGERS
BRONZE
PRETTY GOOD ADVICE
Burger (Capitola)
EAST END GASTROPUB
SILVER
CARPO’S RESTAURANT
BRONZE
PLEASURE PIZZA EAST SIDE EATERY
Burger (Santa Cruz)
JACK’S
SILVER
BELLY GOAT CRAFT BURGERS
BRONZE
BETTY BURGERS, SEABRIGHT AVENUE
Burger (Scotts Valley/SLV)
EMERALD MALLARD
SILVER
BRUNO’S BAR AND GRILL
BRONZE
COWBOY BAR & GRILL
Burger (Watsonville)
WOODEN NICKEL BAR & GRILL
SILVER
ELLA’S AT THE AIRPORT
BRONZE
CALIFORNIA GRILL
Calamari
THE CROW’S NEST
SILVER
RIVA FISH HOUSE
BRONZE
ALDO’S HARBORSIDE RESTAURANT
Cheap Eats
CHARLIE HONG KONG
SILVER
PRETTY GOOD ADVICE
BRONZE
JACK’S
Chef
JESIKAH STOLAROFF, VIM
SILVER
DAMANI THOMAS, OSWALD
BRONZE
SANTOS MAJANO, HOOK & LINE
Chinese Restaurant
SPECIAL NOODLE
SILVER
CANTON
BRONZE
SHUN FENG RESTAURANT
Chowder
STAGNARO BROS. SEAFOOD INC.
SILVER
RIVA FISH HOUSE
BRONZE
GILDA’S
Deli
ZOCCOLI’S
SILVER
GARDEN LIQUOR & DELI
BRONZE
SEABRIGHT DELI
Falafel
ZAMEEN
SILVER
ACHILLES BY THE SEA
BRONZE
FALAFEL OF SANTA CRUZ
Food Truck
SCRUMPTIOUS FISH AND CHIPS
SILVER
PANA
BRONZE
THE REAL TACO
French Fries
PARISH PUBLICK HOUSE, APTOS
SILVER
JACK’S
BRONZE
CARPO’S RESTAURANT
WOODEN NICKEL
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
RESTAURANTS
Gluten-Free Menu
DHARMA’S
SILVER
CHUBBS CHICKEN SANDWICHES
BRONZE
HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
Greek Restaurant
ZAMEEN
SILVER
MOZAIC
BRONZE
ACHILLES BY THE SEA
Hawaiian Restaurant
PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL
SILVER
HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
BRONZE
MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN & GROGGERY
Indian or Pakistani Restaurant
AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO, SCOTTS VALLEY
SILVER NAMASTE, MISSION STREET
BRONZE
AMBROSIA INDIA BISTRO, APTOS
Italian Restaurant
LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN
SILVER
LAGO DI COMO
BRONZE
TRAMONTI
Kid-Friendly Eatery
KIANTI’S PIZZA & PASTA BAR
SILVER
CARPO’S RESTAURANT
BRONZE
PONO HAWAIIAN GRILL
Late-Night
Dining
MANUEL’S
SILVER
CHARLIE HONG KONG
BRONZE
THE CRÊPE PLACE
Mexican Restaurant (Aptos/Soquel)
MANUEL’S
SILVER
TORTILLA FLATS
BRONZE
TAQUERIA LOS PERICOS
Mexican Restaurant (Capitola)
TACOS MORENO, 41ST AVENUE
SILVER
MIJO’S BRONZE
EL TORO BRAVO
Mexican Restaurant (Santa Cruz) EL PALOMAR
SILVER
LOS PERICOS MARKET
Mexican Restaurant (Scotts Valley/SLV)
TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS, MOUNT HERMON ROAD
SILVER
MAYA MEXICAN RESTAURANT
BRONZE
TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS, VICTOR SQUARE
LILLIAN’S ITALIAN KITCHEN
Mexican Restaurant (Watsonville)
CILANTROS
SILVER JALISCO BRONZE EL FRIJOLITO
Middle Eastern Restaurant
LAÍLÍ
SILVER ZAMEEN BRONZE MOZAIC
New Restaurant
EMERALD MALLARD
SILVER
HOOK & LINE BRONZE CAVALLETTA
Outdoor Dining
LAÍLÍ
SILVER
THE CROW’S NEST
BRONZE
THE CRÊPE PLACE
RESTAURANTS
Patio Dining
(Aptos/Soquel)
THE HIDEOUT
SILVER HOME
BRONZE
BITTERSWEET BISTRO
Patio Dining (Capitola)
SHADOWBROOK
SILVER
ZELDA’S ON THE BEACH
BRONZE
PARADISE BEACH GRILLE
Patio Dining (Santa Cruz)
THE CROW’S NEST
SILVER LAÍLÍ
BRONZE THE CRÊPE PLACE
Patio Dining (Scotts Valley/SLV)
LAUGHING MONK BREWING
SILVER
COWBOY BAR & GRILL
BRONZE
HEAVENLY ROADSIDE CAFE
Patio Dining (Watsonville)
ELLA’S AT THE AIRPORT
SILVER CILANTROS
Pizza (Aptos/Soquel)
MENTONE
SILVER BUZZO
BRONZE
VILLAGE HOST PIZZA & GRILL
Pizza (Capitola)
PIZZA MY HEART, 41ST AVENUE
SILVER
EAST END GASTROPUB
BRONZE
VILLAGE HOST PIZZA & GRILL
Pizza (Santa Cruz)
PIZZA MY HEART
SILVER
BOOKIE’S PIZZA
BRONZE
BANTAM
Pizza (Scotts Valley/SLV)
PARADISE BEACH GRILLE THE PIZZA SERIES
THE PIZZA SERIES
SILVER
REDWOOD PIZZERIA
BRONZE
BOULDER CREEK PIZZA & PUB
Pizza (Watsonville)
OZZY’S
SILVER
CASSIDY’S PIZZA
BRONZE
SLICE PROJECT
Restaurant (Desserts)
GAYLE’S BAKERY & ROSTICCERIA
SILVER
VIM
BRONZE
CHOCOLAT
Restaurant (Takeout)
CHARLIE HONG KONG
SILVER
REAL THAI KITCHEN
BRONZE
SCRUMPTIOUS FISH AND CHIPS
Restaurant View
THE CROW’S NEST
SILVER
JACK O’NEILL
BRONZE
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
Restaurant (Aptos/Soquel)
THE HIDEOUT
SILVER HOME
BRONZE
MENTONE
Restaurant (Capitola)
SHADOWBROOK
SILVER TRESTLES
BRONZE
PHOTO: DREW PENNER
Santa Cruz County’s Beloved Natural Food Grocer
The one that started it all! A local landmark since 1969, Staff of Life changed the game when it was the first one out of the gates with a new philosophy of prioritizing all things healthy, organic, and sustainable. Browse the aisles to find the best natural foods in Santa Cruz County, experience the down-home service Staff of Life is famous for, and discover why we keep getting voted Best Natural Grocery Store.
Award-winning excellence in multiple categories!
Staff of Life appreciates your votes for Best of Santa Cruz honors in the following categories:
• NATURAL GROCERY STORE
• CHEESE SELECTION
• PRODUCE
• GROCERY STORE
Thanks again, Good Times readers, we’d like to extend our gratitude to the “Best Of” voters from the Santa Cruz and Watsonville communities. If you haven’t already, come in and discover all we do to keep earning your votes and earning your business.
1266 Soquel Avenue • 831-423-8632
BRUNO’S BAR & GRILL
Restaurant (San Lorenzo Valley)
EMERALD MALLARD SILVER
Restaurant (Santa Cruz) VIM
NEST
Restaurant (Scotts Valley)
BRUNO’S BAR & GRILL
NINE GRILL & BAR
Restaurant (Soquel) CAFÉ CRUZ
Restaurant (Watsonville)
CALIFORNIA GRILL
Bobbie Frandeen Co-owner/Estimator
Deborah Cypert Owner
Bianca Gera Office Manager/Sales
PHOTO:
THANKS TO YOUR TREMENDOUS SUPPORT, CAROLINE’S HAS DONATED $4,508,000 SINCE OUR DOORS OPENED IN 2011!
We are a non-profit thrift shop whose primary focus is to raise money for 41 Santa Cruz County non-profits. We focus on those programs and/ or services for children with special medical, developmental, psychological or other special needs.
8045 & 8047 Soquel Drive Aptos 831-662-0327 carolinesnonprofit.org
RESTAURANTS
Seafood Restaurant (Scotts Valley/SLV)
RUMBLE FISH
SILVER
TROUT FARM INN
BRONZE
SCRUMPTIOUS FISH AND CHIPS
Seafood Restaurant (Santa Cruz)
HOOK & LINE
SILVER
RIVA FISH HOUSE
BRONZE
THE CROW’S NEST
Seafood Restaurant (Watsonville)
THE FISH HOUSE BAR & GRILL
SILVER CALIFORNIA GRILL
BRONZE
LA PERLA DEL PACIFICO
Server
ISA ABBOTTS, VIM
SILVER
JOSH, OSWALD
BRONZE
JASON WEBB, THE CROW’S NEST
Small Plates
HULA’S ISLAND GRILL
SILVER
CHOCOLAT
BRONZE
JACK O’NEILL
Steaks
SHADOWBROOK
SILVER
BRONZE
HINDQUARTER BAR & GRILLE
Sushi/Japanese (Aptos/Soquel)
AKIRA
SUSHI GARDEN
BEST PHARMACY
SAY GOODBYE TO THE ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL APPROACH OF COMMERCIAL
MEDICATIONS.
At OneSource Compounding Pharmacy, we custom-make medicines tailored to your specific needs, prescribed by a physician that cannot be met by commercial medications.
Whether you require a unique dosage form, are allergic to specific ingredients, or seek a medication unavailable in standard forms or strengths, we have you covered.
Experience the Difference of Personalized Care:
• Tailored prescriptions designed specifically for you
• Flexible dosage forms including cream, gel, liquids, or lozenges
• Allergy-friendly alternatives and supplements for your peace of mind
Trust our expert pharmacists to mix, combine or alter ingredients with precision and care, ensuring you receive medications that fit you like a glove.
Experience the personalized touch of OneSource Compounding Pharmacy and elevate your health journey today!
• Thorne
• Metagenics
• Pure Encapsulations
• Ortho Molecular Products
• Prevagen
• Nordic Naturals
• Gaia Herbs
• Allergy Research Group
• Klean Athlete Pro
• Integrative Therapeutics
• Douglas Laboratories
• Biotics Research
• Designs for Health
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
THANKS FOR THE BURGER LOVE!
ImuraTacos or Burritos (Aptos/Soquel)
TAQUERIA LOS PERICOS
Tacos or Burritos (Capitola)
TACOS MORENO, 41ST AVENUE
Tacos or Burritos (Santa Cruz)
TACOS MORENO
TAQUERIA SANTA CRUZ, SOQUEL AVENUE
Tacos or Burritos (Scotts Valley/SLV)
TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS, MOUNT HERMON ROAD
SILVER
LA CHIMICHANGA CANTINA
BRONZE
TAQUERIA LOS GALLOS, BOULDER CREEK
Tacos or Burritos (Watsonville)
EL FRIJOLITO
SILVER
Thai or Laotian Restaurant
SAWASDEE THAI CUISINE SILVER
KITCHEN
BANGKOK WEST
Vegetarian or Vegan Restaurant
PRETTY GOOD ADVICE
Blinds/Shades
ADVANCED BLIND & SHADE
SILVER
SHOPPING P winners
Antique Shop
CAROLINE’S NON-PROFIT THRIFT SHOP SILVER
ANTIQUES
CENTER STREET ANTIQUES
Auto Dealer (watsonville)
WATSONVILLE FORD SILVER
WATSONVILLE CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM
Auto Dealership
SANTA CRUZ TOYOTA SILVER
OCEAN HONDA
MCCARTY’S CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS BRONZE INTERIOR VISION FLOORING & DESIGN
Carpet & Flooring Store
WAREHOUSE DIRECT FLOORING OUTLET
SILVER INTERIOR VISION FLOORING & DESIGN BRONZE
SAMAYA’S FLOORING & DESIGN
CBD Product
VITAL BODY CBD CREAM
PEAR CBG
S.A.G.E. CBD
Clothing (Men’s)
BERDELS
SILVER
Clothing (Women’s)
PACIFIC TRADING CO.
SILVER
DAISY STORE
BUBBLE LOUNGE BOUTIQUE
Crystals/ Rocks/Stones
MOUNTAIN SPIRIT STORE
SILVER
KISSED
Dispensary
KINDPEOPLES
SILVER
Edible Selection
KINDPEOPLES
SILVER
HOOK OUTLET
3 BROS SANTA CRUZ
Erotica Store
CAMOUFLAGE
SILVER GOOD VIBRATIONS BRONZE FRENCHY’S BOUTIQUE
Eyewear
EYEQ OPTOMETRY
SILVER PLAZA LANE OPTOMETRY BRONZE SITE FOR SORE EYES
Fabric Store
HARTS FABRIC
FÁBRICA
Fireplace Supplies
WOODSTOVE & SUN SILVER
SUPPLY HARDWARE
JAMES
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
DELL WILLIAMS
Clean Home Clean Mind CLEANING SERVICES
Thank you to all of our supporters. Thank you to our current clients & our future clients for your loyalty and for the opportunity to serve you. Lastly thank you to my workers for their hard work & dedication.
SHOPPING
Flower Shop
THE FLOWER SHACK SILVER
BANKSIA FLORAL DESIGN
FLOWERS
Furniture & Décor
SC41
FURNITURE
Game Store
COMICOPOLIS
SILVER
BRONZE
AND BOARD GAMES
SANTA CRUZ
Garden Center
SAN LORENZO GARDEN CENTER
SILVER
GARDENS BRONZE MOUNTAIN FEED AND FARM SUPPLY
Gift Boutique
BOTANIC + LUXE
ART & OFFICE SUPPLY
Guitar Store
SYLVAN MUSIC
MUSICIAN
CRUZ GUITAR COMPANY
Hardware Store
SCARBOROUGH ACE HARDWARE
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ
HARDWARE, SOQUEL AVENUE
HARDWARE
Headshop
PIPELINE SILVER
Hot Tub/ Spa Store
SANTA CRUZ FIREPLACE AND HOT TUB LLC
SPA AND SAUNA
Kitchen Store
TOQUE BLANCHE
Lighting
Musical Instrument Store
SYLVAN MUSIC SILVER
SHOPPING
Pre-Owned Auto Dealer
THE ARGUS COMPANY
SILVER
ALOHA MOTORS
Record and CD Store
STREETLIGHT RECORDS
SILVER
REDWOOD RECORDS
BRONZE
OFFSHORE SOUNDS
Shoes (Men’s)
SOCKSHOP & SHOE COMPANY
SILVER
OLD SCHOOL SHOES INC.
BRONZE
BILL’S WHEELS
Shoes (Women’s)
SOCKSHOP & SHOE CO.
SILVER
BECK’S SHOES
BRONZE
OLD SCHOOL SHOES INC.
Thrift Store
GREY BEARS
SILVER
CAROLINE’S NON-PROFIT THRIFT SHOP
BRONZE
THE ABBOT’S THRIFT
Tire Store
LLOYD’S TIRE & AUTO CARE, RIVER STREET
SILVER
BIG O TIRES
BRONZE
PRIORS TIRES
Video Game Shop
LEVEL UP VIDEO GAMES
SILVER
GAME VAULT, CAPITOLA
Vintage Clothing Store
MOON ZOOOM
SILVER
CROSSROADS TRADING CO.
BRONZE
COGNITO CLOTHING
K
SERVICES
Car Wash
WHALERS CAR WASH
SILVER
CAR WASH BRONZE AJ’S MARKET
Carpet Cleaning
SURF CITY STEAMERS
SILVER QUALITY CARPET CARE BRONZE TIE CONNOISSEUR PEACHY KLEEN CHEMDRY
Computer Repair Service
CLICKAWAY
SILVER PLEASURE POINT COMPUTERS BRONZE USER FRIENDLY COMPUTING
Local Bank
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY BANK
Credit Union
winners
P
Accounting or Bookkeeping Practice
A. BAGLEY CPA TAX & ACCOUNTING SERVICES, INC.
EBERT & COMPANY
MICHAEL W. BLAS & CO.
Alternative Health Services
POINTS FOR WELLNESS SILVER
NATURAL MEDICINE
SANTA CRUZ FAMILY ACUPUNCTURE
Auto Body Repair
RUSTY’S REPAIR
SILVER FANUCCI AUTO BODY SILVER PERRIGO’S AUTO BODY SHOP
Auto Service Center
BOBBY’S PIT STOP
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ TOYOTA
BRONZE TIE
GLENN’S AUTO REPAIR
RUSTY’S REPAIR
Barbershop
DRIP FADES
SILVER GET FADED BARBERSHOP
BRONZE
WAVES AND FADES BARBERSHOP
Boat Tour
CHARDONNAY SAILING CHARTERS
SILVER
LL YACHT CHARTERS
STAGNARO CHARTERS
Building Contractor
TESTORFF CONSTRUCTION SILVER TALMADGE CONSTRUCTION
BRONZE BRIONES BUILT
BAY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
SILVER SANTA CRUZ COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
Dry Cleaner
CLASSIC VAPOR DRY CLEANERS
SILVER
CLEANERS
BRONZE MISSION DRY CLEANERS
Electrical Contractor
JOHN HOPE ELECTRIC, INC.
SILVER BASSET ELECTRIC BRONZE SUNRISE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING
Financial Advisor
OHANA WEALTH MANAGEMENT
SILVER
LYDIA HARVILLE, STATE FARM BRONZE
CHERYL REBOTTARO, EDWARD JONES
Framing Shop
LENZ ARTS
SILVER YORK FRAMING GALLERY BRONZE
CIRCUS
2901 Park Ave., Suite B1 Soquel, CA95073
robert@ohanawealthmanagement.net
alison@ohanawealthmanagement.net ohanawealthmanagement.net Call
SERVICES
Green Business
SHOPPER’S CORNER
SILVER
GOAT SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
TERRA NOVA ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPING
Heating & Air Conditioning Service
BELLOWS PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING, ELECTRICAL
SILVER
BOGNER HVAC
BRONZE
THE FURNACE ROOM, INC.
Hotel or Lodging
DREAM INN
SILVER
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
BRONZE
SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT
Housecleaning Service
CLEAN HOME CLEAN MIND CLEANING CO.
SILVER
MAXIMA’S CLEANERS
BRONZE
DYNAMIC HOUSE CLEANING
Insurance Agency
LYDIA HARVILLE, STATE FARM
SILVER
TANNER TEDSEN, FARMERS INSURANCE
BRONZE
MICHAEL BOFFY, FARMERS INSURANCE
Interior Design Firm
STRIPE
SILVER
SEVERINE SECRET
BRONZE
ATLAS DESIGN STUDIO
Jewelry Repair
DELL WILLIAMS
SILVER STEPHAN’S FINE JEWELRY
MARK AREIAS JEWELERS
Landscape Design Company
TERRA NOVA ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPING
SILVER
K & D LANDSCAPING, INC.
BRONZE
HARMONIC LANDSCAPES
Lawyer
DINA HOFFMAN
SILVER FINE POINT LAW BRONZE
DEBORAH A. MALKIN
Life Coach
SANDY JACQUARD
SILVER
LAUREN FURTADO, LIVE HAPPIER
BRONZE TIE
CAMILLE ELLIS
CARA HOPKINS
Local Hero
SURFER DARRYL “FLEA” VIROSTKO
SILVER
KEITH MCHENRY, FOOD NOT BOMBS
BRONZE
CURTIS RELIFORD, FOLLOW YOUR HEART ACTION NETWORK
Mortgage Broker
MESHA DIMITRUK, ESSEX MORTGAGE
SILVER
CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE
BRONZE
SANTA CRUZ LENDING GROUP
Nonprofit Organization
GREY BEARS
SILVER
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK
BRONZE
TEEN KITCHEN PROJECT
Painting Contractor
SHELTON PAINTING
SILVER GARVEY PAINTING, INC.
Photo Processing
PHOTO:
RICHARD STOCKTON
Santa Cruz Clam Chowder Cook-Off
SERVICES
Photographer
ALICIA TELFER
SILVER
BRONZE
Piercing Studio
AMORY BODY ARTS
SILVER
FREEDOM TATTOO
BRONZE
MIDTOWN TATTOO & PIERCING
Place to Worship
TWIN LAKES CHURCH
SILVER THE
BRONZE
TEMPLE BETH EL
Plumbing Service
BELLOWS PLUMBING, HEATING, COOLING, ELECTRICAL
SILVER
ANYTIME PLUMBING OF SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
EXPERT PLUMBING & WATER HEATERS, INC.
Portrait Photographer
SHMUEL THALER PHOTOGRAPHER
SILVER
ALICIA TELFER
BRONZE
DEVI PRIDE
Print Shop
BAY PHOTO
SILVER
COMMUNITY PRINTERS
BRONZE
MAVERICK MAILING
Real Estate Agency
DAVID LYNG REAL ESTATE
SILVER
ANDERSON CHRISTIE, INC. BRONZE CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL
ESTATE SERENO
Real Estate Agent
LOREN MORSE, EXP REALTY SILVER BAILEY COTRONA, SOL PROPERTY ADVISORS BRONZE
SHIRI GRADEK, CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE SERENO
Senior
Sue
– @simplyskinsantacruz
Andrea Versaw – @wavestowoodsskincare
Lindsay Urbani – @luca.permanent.cosmetics
Melanie Meyer – theskinbarsantacruz.com
Jennifer Norton – vagaro.com/hairbyjennifernorton
Nikki Olson – @nicoleolsonaesthetics
Karen Calabrese – @skinfitbykc
Sue Bell
Over 150 artists, wine tasting from 23 Santa Cruz Mountain wineries, Local Artisans Marketplace, Gourmet Food & Entertainment.
Free parking and shuttle at Capitola Mall on 41st Avenue.
FAMILY & PETS
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
Care
Dog Obedience School
BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES SILVER
Family Restaurant
Pet Boarding
BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES SILVER
CAMP HAPPY TAILS
Pet Grooming Service
BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES
SILVER
Pet
Kids’ Clothing
Kids’ Art Program
SEVEN DIRECTIONS CREATIVE LEARNING CENTER
GROOMING
SALON
or Feed Store
PET PALS
SILVER MOUNTAIN FEED AND FARM SUPPLY
FEED & PET SUPPLY
Pet Sitting
BED & BISCUITS GROOMINGDALES
SILVER
BY US
Place for a Kids’ Party
SANTA CRUZ ROLLER PALLADIUM SILVER
Place to Adopt an Animal
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY
Preschool
SIMCHA PRESCHOOL
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
FAMILY & PETS
Private School
TWIN LAKES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
SILVER
GATEWAY SCHOOL
BRONZE
KIRBY SCHOOL
Public School
SANTA CRUZ HIGH SCHOOL
SILVER
DE LAVEAGA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
BRONZE
APTOS HIGH SCHOOL
Summer Camp
KENNOLYN CAMPS
SILVER
CAMP KAYETZ
BRONZE
SEVEN DIRECTIONS CREATIVE LEARNING CENTER
Toy Store
CHILDISH
SILVER
WONDERLAND TOYS
BRONZE
PALACE ART & OFFICE SUPPLY
Veterinarian
KACIE WELLS, HARBOR VETERINARY HOSPITAL
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
Brighten up your indoors with houseplants! Bring fresh color and air inside. Choose from all sizes... 4" starts to table top and specimen plants. Come check out our fresh stock and new layout in the greenhouse.
winners
HEALTH & BEAUTY P
Acupuncture Practice
LEE LEWIS, LAC
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ ACU
BRONZE
SPRING SMITH
Bike Shop
BICYCLE TRIP
SILVER
SCOTTS VALLEY CYCLE SPORT
BRONZE
SPOKESMAN BICYCLES
Chiropractic Office
SANTA CRUZ SPINE AND SPORT
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ NONFORCE CHIROPRACTORS
BRONZE
SANTA CRUZ CHIROPRACTIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC
Dental Practice
MICHAEL J. RAFFO, D.M.D.
SILVER
LANDMARK DENTAL GROUP
BRONZE
HEIT FAMILY DENTISTRY INC.
Doctor
KELLI BEINGESSER, SUTTER HEALTH
SILVER
RACHEL CARLTON ABRAMS, SANTA CRUZ
INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
BRONZE
BAY EYE MEDICAL GROUP
eBike Shop
BICYCLE TRIP
SILVER
CURRENT EBIKES
BRONZE
SCOTTS VALLEY CYCLE SPORT
Esthetician
SUE BELL, SIMPLY SKIN ESTHETICS
SILVER
DEANN BOKARIZA-NEFF, THE STUDIO SPA
BRONZE
JACLYN ETCHEVERRY
Fitness Class
CARINA REID, FUEL PHITNESS/ TOADAL FITNESS
SILVER
BODYPUMP, GOAT SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
TOADAL CROSS TRAINING, TOADAL FITNESS
Golf Course
DELAVEAGA GOLF COURSE
SILVER
SEASCAPE GOLF CLUB
BRONZE
PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE
Gym or Health Club
TOADAL FITNESS LIVE OAK
SILVER
GOAT SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
WEST FITNESS SANTA CRUZ
Hair Salon
PHOENIX SALON AND GALLERY
SILVER
EVOLVE BEAUTY LOUNGE
BRONZE
URBAN GROOVE
DELAVEAGA
Health Care Facility
NURTURE WOMEN’S HEALTH & FERTILITY
SILVER
KAISER PERMANENTE
BRONZE
SANTA CRUZ INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Laser Hair Removal
REJUVENATE MEDI-SPA & WELLNESS
SILVER
PACIFIC COAST AESTHETICS
BRONZE
LASER HAIR & SKIN SOLUTIONS
Martial Arts School
GRACIE JIU-JITSU OF SANTA CRUZ
SILVER
SANFORD’S MARTIAL ARTS
BRONZE
GARTH TAYLOR JIU-JITSU AND MARTIAL ARTS
Massage School
FIVE BRANCHES UNIVERSITY
SILVER
CYPRESS HEALTH INSTITUTE MASSAGE SCHOOL
BRONZE
AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL MASSAGE
GOLF COURSE
PHOTO: TARMO HANNULA
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Massage Therapist
ANTOINETTE RIOS, DIVINE MASSAGE & SKIN
SILVER
MAIRIN TORR, NURTURE WOMEN’S HEALTH & FERTILITY
BRONZE
JENNY CALL, MYSOFACIAL RELIEF AND INTEGRATED THERAPIES
Medi-Spa
REJUVENATE MEDI-SPA & WELLNESS
SILVER
Midwife
DANA RAMSEY, NURTURE WOMEN’S HEALTH AND FERTILITY
SILVER
SARAH J. SWANSON, TRULY MIDWIFERY
BRONZE
KAYLA CUSHNER, SUTTER HEALTH
Nail Salon
TRACY’S NAILS SALON
SILVER
THE RED CARPET SALON
BRONZE
PRISM BEAUTY
Naturopathic Doctor
AIMÉE SHUNNEY
SILVER
TONYA FLECK, SANTA CRUZ NATUROPATHIC MEDICAL CENTER
BRONZE
IRENE J. VALENCIA, THRIVE NATURAL MEDICINE
Nutrition Center
THE HERB ROOM
SILVER
FELTON NUTRITION
BRONZE THE HEALTHY WAY
Orthodontist
JOHN A. HEDRICK, D.D.S., M.S.
SILVER
HULME ORTHODONTICS
BRONZE
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Personal Trainer
CARINA REID, FUEL PHITNESS/ TOADAL FITNESS
SILVER
NATALIA RIVERA ESPAÑA, GOAT SANTA CRUZ
BRONZE
ROCKY SNYDER, RFC: REHAB, FITNESS, CONDITIONING
Pharmacy
HORSNYDER PHARMACY
SILVER
FRANK’S PHARMACY
BRONZE ONESOURCE COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
Pilates Studio
MONARCH PILATES & PHYSICAL THERAPY
SILVER
PLEASURE POINT PILATES
BRONZE
HOT ELEVATION STUDIOS
Running Store
FLEET FEET
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ RUNNING COMPANY
Skate Shop
BILL’S WHEELS
SILVER
SANTA CRUZ BOARDROOM
BRONZE
SKATEWORKS
Spa (pampering)
WELL WITHIN SPA
SILVER
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
BRONZE
YOSO WELLNESS SPA
Spa (soaking)
WELL WITHIN SPA
SILVER
SAGE FLOAT SPA
BRONZE
TEA HOUSE SPA
Sporting Goods
PLAY IT AGAIN SPORTS
SILVER
REI
BRONZE
BIG 5 SPORTING GOODS, WATSONVILLE
Surf School
RICHARD SCHMIDT SURF SCHOOL
SILVER SURF SCHOOL SANTA CRUZ
Surf Shop
O’NEILL, BEACH STREET
SILVER TIE
FREELINE SURF SHOP
PACIFIC WAVE
Swim
School
SIMPKINS FAMILY SWIM CENTER
SILVER
ADVENTURE SPORTS UNLIMITED
BRONZE
JIM BOOTH SWIM SCHOOL, DUNCAN HOLBERT POOL
Therapist
(tie)
ILA BREEANN “BREE” BODE, NURTURE WOMEN’S HEALTH & FERTILITY
SHANNON HEALER, LCSW
BRONZE TIE
CAMILLE ELLIS
SARA ANDERSON, SANTA CRUZ
THERAPY COLLECTIVE
Vitamin/ Supplements
THE HERB ROOM
SILVER NORDIC NATURALS
BRONZE FELTON NUTRITION
Water Store
BLUE ZONE WATERS
SILVER PURE VALLEY WATER
BRONZE H2O4U
Waxing or Sugaring Studio
SIMPLY SKIN ESTHETICS
SILVER
BINX WAX HAIR REMOVAL
BRONZE
SUGARSMITH
Yoga Instructor
PUJA CHANCE
SILVER
ROBIN BERKERY
BRONZE
HANNAH MUSE
Yoga Studio
BREATH+ONENESS
SILVER
PLEASURE POINT SANCTUARY
BRONZE
VILLAGE YOGA SANTA CRUZ
THE HERB ROOM
PHOTO:
TARMO HANNULA
EDITOR’S PICKS
Best All-Access Portal to the Monterey Bay Sanctuary
SANTA CRUZ WHARF
It’s only natural to take something awesome for granted once you get used to it—even if that something is a natural wonder of the world. Enter the Santa Cruz Wharf, which unleashes free music, free fishing, free dance classes and local-centric happy hours to pair with what wharf supervisor Britt Hoberg reminds residents is the longest on the entire West Coast to tap the power of the Pacific Ocean. “Just having access a half mile out into the sanctuary is pretty big, given the chance to view all the wildlife out here, and being immersed in nature rather than on land looking at it,” he says. “The thing with the wharf is access unlike anywhere else.” No scuba training, sailboat or surf skills needed. MARK C. ANDERSON
Best Hot and Sour Soup for the Soul
SPECIAL NOODLE
Soup really does speak to the soul like no other food can, and seemingly every worldly type and style of cuisine has a signature broth venerated as a cultural culinary paragon. When it comes to Chinese food, hot and sour soup is where it’s at, and Special Noodle’s reigns supreme. The dish at this Santa Cruz restaurant on Ocean Street is exactly and exceptionally what it promises to be: Hot in temperature with pleasantly assertive levels of spice, building addictively on itself. And sour, with a wonderful and welcome acidity that sings through, giving the umami-rich broth balance and complexity. Complementing these flavor notes are delightful textures: silky egg ribbons, subtly firm tofu, crisp bamboo shoots and sliced mushrooms that snap slightly at the chew. It’s soup good enough to cure, or at least temporarily ameliorate, any existential or spiritual malfunction. Happy slurping. ANDREW STEINGRUBE
Weirdest Place to Laugh THE BLUE LAGOON
Comedy Night at the Blue Lagoon, downtown Santa Cruz, is the longest-running free comedy show in California. It’s a sports, goth, drag, punk, disco, comedy bar and a safe place to be you (as long as you’re over 21). Every Tuesday at Blue Lagoonies Comedy, the music starts at 7:45pm and is followed at 8:15pm by a 90-minute free comedy show. Don’t get too distracted that somebody brought their pet owl with them, and give the comics some attention. It’s a no-hate zone, and maybe besides laughing, you might just get a little bit of hope. Also, don’t touch anything. DNA
Best Place for a (Fully Clothed) Massage
CHINA MASSAGE & REFLEXOLOGY
Massage always begins with a warm foot bath as the experienced, certified therapists start with deep tissue work to neck and shoulders, working all joints and tissue of the body from head to toe. Starting at $45 for a one hour, full-body massage, China Massage is easy on the wallet too. KRISTEN MCLAUGHLIN
Best Gas Station AJ’S MARKET
This market in Soquel will forever change the way you think of gas station convenience stores. Sure, it has gas and a car wash. But it also has a gourmet kitchen serving locally harvested seafood and Harris Ranch meats, including one of the best burgers in the county. It’s fast food, but unlike anything else with that name. And then it goes where no gas station has gone before: it has organic produce and tasty treats from all over the world, including English biscuits, real maple syrup and a Southeast Asian spice rack. It also stocks plenty of local wines, baked goods, ice creams and coffees. Owner Akhtar Javed, born in Pakistan, fell in love with Santa Cruz and opened the market in 1987. He garnered a big following after the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake when with no electricity, he told customers to take their products free and pay him back when they could. BRAD KAVA
Best Bean Selection STAFF OF LIFE NATURAL FOODS
Dried beans, a staple of Mediterranean and Blue Zone diets, are finally having their moment. As more of us experiment with cooking from scratch, legumes have a lot to offer. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber and endless possibilities, beans are the perfect combo of comfort food and sustainability. Think silky cannellini beans in a rustic Tuscan soup, smoky black beans for Taco Tuesday, or buttery cranberry beans slow-simmered to perfection. When it comes to the best local selection, Staff of Life Natural Foods tops the list, with bulk bins offering a goldmine of heirloom beans, vibrant lentils and chickpeas at competitive prices. The range of options puts hard-to-find varieties in easy reach among the
With eight modern massage tables in this relaxing, quiet studio in Capitola, practitioners use ancient Chinese methods to help you unwind and de-stress. If you’ve never had a massage before, it’s a good introduction since you stay clothed throughout the session. Recommended attire is a cozy T-shirt, yoga pants or sweats. >>>
AJ’S MARKET
PHOTO: BRAD KAVA
EDITOR’S PICKS
<<<
long list of staples. So skip the cans and explore the world of dried beans—flavorful, affordable and endlessly versatile. Get ready to make magic, one pot of beans at a time. ELIZABETH BORELLI
Best Spot to Sip Tea and Read Philosophy
LULU CARPENTER’S
Located in a historic 1865 building on the corner of Pacific Avenue, Lulu Carpenter’s carries an impressive selection of 16 teas: green, black, tisanes and a wonderful oolong. And its art deco interior, bookshelf full of classical literature, and exposed brick from wall to ceiling makes one feel like sitting down with a good book. At the back of the shop, an outdoor patio sports two fire pits, palm trees and more exposed brick in the surrounding walls of taller buildings. Creating a vibe that’s an excellent mix between Brooklyn coffeehouse and Santa Cruz mainstay, this locally owned coffee shop is an excellent spot to stop, sit down with tea (or the excellent house roasted coffee) and do homework, chat with friends or read philosophy from Kant to Camus. MATHEW CHIPMAN
Best Place to Drink, Dance and Be Merry
EL VAQUERO WINERY
Music, dancing, food trucks and wine—El Vaquero in Corralitos has it all. This upbeat winery features ever-evolving entertainment. Limited seating indoors means enjoying the great outdoors with El Vaquero’s heaters when the weather’s cool. But you’ll soon heat up as you shake a wicked hoof on the dance floor. Trivia night is every Thursday, with a chance to win a bottle of wine. Order slices from Corralitos Pizza or grab a taco from a local food truck. Music events often sell out, so make a reservation or get there early. El Vaquero bottles excellent wine, too. Try the Pinotage, Merlot and the “One-Eyed Charlie” Carignane. JOSIE COWDEN
Best Teeny Greens
NEW NATIVES
New Natives has been a cornerstone of Santa Cruz’s vibrant local food scene since 1982, when founders Sandra Ward and Ken Kimes turned their garage into a grow room for organic microgreens. What began as a small-scale operation is now a thriving sprout farm producing over 2,000 pounds of fresh, nutrient-packed greens each week. Committed to quality and sustainability, New Natives harvests their microgreens at the sprout stage—the peak moment for vitamins, enzymes and bold flavors. The wide range of varieties include tender sunflower shoots, peppery arugula and nutrient-rich broccoli sprouts, to name a few favorites. How to enjoy them? Uplevel your salads with a handful of sprouts, tuck into a wrap, or add a bunch to your morning smoothie for an extra boost of nutrients. Support local, eat fresh and savor every bite. Catch New Natives every week at the Aptos, Downtown Santa Cruz, Live Oak/Eastside and Westside Santa Cruz farmer’s market. ELIZABETH BORELLI
Best Hash Browns Without Walls
ALDO’S HARBOR RESTAURANT
They are a humble staple from a humble tuber, but real-deal, honestto-Goddess, mom-and-pop professional hash browns present a balance of crispiness, oil and starch that together unlock heavenly dimensions of taste and texture unattainable alone. The A++ hash browns feel like required plating at the community standby that is Aldo’s, inarguably a community treasure and arguably its most unique restaurant logistically, as it’s entirely outdoors—sunscreen is available upon request for the unprepared—and snuggled next to the Santa Cruz Harbor and Mariner Park Lawn. MARK C. ANDERSON
Best Spot for a First Date
MAKAI ISLAND KITCHEN
& GROGGERY
First dates are notorious for being filled with two things: awkwardness and anxiety. What’s the opposite of that? Hawaiian vibes, with that relaxed, on-vacation, pleasantly set apart from reality feel. Makai on the SC Wharf does exactly that with a truly transportive ambiance. Dining directly above water while enjoying panoramic ocean views in an immersive Hawaiian experience is sure to relax even the most nervous of first-daters. And if that doesn’t work, well, that’s what the rum is for. Classic cocktails abound, and asking for the secret drink menu is sure to increase rizz. Further, the bar slowly rotates, creating a unique and rhythmically calming experience. The food menu is delicious as it is diverse, with small and light plates to large and savory ones, offering something that schmacks for everyone. Between the food, drink and atmosphere, Makai’s environment is perfectly set for first-date success. ANDREW STEINGRUBE
Best Japanese-Peruvian Poetry
OYUKI SUSHI NIKKEI
Discerning diners love year-and-a-half-old Oyuki for a range of reasons. The telenovela inspo behind the name. The mom-and-pop sweetness behind the service. The entertaining execution in the open kitchen. The Inka Kola rarely seen this far north. And these are all valid, even important. But the biggest key is the rarest in these parts: The intuitive expression of Nikkei—think Japanese techniques on Peruvian ingredients—in dishes like causita potato towers, aji pepper-spiced nigiri and leche de tigre-sauced sushi. Delicioso and oishī. MARK C. ANDERSON
Best Healthy Hydroponics
CABRILLO COLLEGE HORTICULTURE PROGRAM
Fresh, flavorful and sustainably grown, the hydroponic salad greens from Cabrillo College’s Horticulture Program are grown without soil in a carefully controlled environment. Available on Saturday mornings from 8am to noon at the Aptos Farmer’s Market at Cabrillo College, these vibrant greens reflect the ingenuity and dedication of students who are mastering the future of farming. Hydroponics, a method that uses nutrient-rich water to cultivate plants, offers a sustainable solution to traditional agriculture >>>
ROCKVIEW DRIVE COUNTY PARK
<<< challenges, using less water and space while producing high-quality crops year-round. The result? Incredibly tender butter and green leaf lettuces, peppery arugula and herbs that are as delicious as they are environmentally conscious. Supporting Cabrillo’s hydroponic greens means supporting the next generation of growers committed to sustainability. Next time you toss a salad, make it one that’s rooted in local passion and cultivated with care. ELIZABETH BORELLI
Best Scenic Sipping
SOQUEL VINEYARDS
To pair great wine and a scenic view, take the short and beautiful drive from Soquel Village up Glen Haven Road to Soquel Vineyards, where lush vines and a sweeping view of the Monterey Bay await. An airy outdoor patio is a great spot to taste the superb pinots made by twin brothers Peter and Paul Bargetto and Jon Morgan. When construction of the winery began in 2001, the three of them wanted an authentic Italian look for the tasting room, so they had handmade rooftop tiles from the 1700s imported—from Italy, of course. JOSIE COWDEN
Best Place to Catch the Green Flash
ROCKVIEW DRIVE COUNTY PARK
In late February of 2020, It was a cold pink evening, I was 15, a sophomore in high school released from track practice early, and I got this feeling in my bones that if I chased the sunset I’d see something truly special. From there, I biked three miles from Soquel High on a beat-up beach cruiser, the whole time afraid the rusty chain would snap from my frantic pace. On Rockview Drive I witnessed my first green flash sunset, a rare blink-and-you’ll-miss-it phenomenon where the sun turns a dazzling emerald shade in the seconds before twilight begins. In the five years since that day in February, I have become an avid sunset chaser, with the pleasure of catching a dozen green flashes, the majority at
PHOTO: MATHEW CHIPMAN
PLAZA DE CESAR CHAVEZ
DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE
EDITOR’S PICKS
Rockview Drive. Nestled between Moran Lake Beach and Pleasure Point Beach, its unobstructed view of a westward horizon, calm and distant, creates ample opportunities between January and April to catch the neon green trick of the light that dazzled the characters of Le Rayon-Vert, Jules Verne’s 1882 novel. MATHEW CHIPMAN
Best Wine and Food Pairing STOCKWELL CELLARS
With a passion for making wine, former metalsmith Eric Stockwell turned his metal shop into an industrial-chic tasting room complete with a plethora of events. Stockwell’s is the place for fun, food and a fabulous time. And it all comes with an upbeat vibe. Visit Stockwell Cellars for Trivia Night, Sip & Sway music nights, and Food Truck Nights—with local vendors serving up tasty nosh. Stockwell supports local artists and features their work on the popular First Friday events. There’s nothing like checking out beautiful artwork with a glass of good wine in your hand. JOSIE COWDEN
Best Graffiti-Covered Waterfall THE WATERFALL SPOT
Half a mile up Prescott Road in Soquel, deep in the redwoods on a small, one-lane, ravine-hugging pass, you might stop in a turnout by a degraded wire fence, just before reaching Land of Medicine Buddha, to hear the rustling sound of water and take a gander at Santa Cruz’s most unique (probably only) man-made waterfall. Lovingly referred to by locals as “the waterfall spot”—with decades of graffiti hidden under layers of moss, crumbling stairs with a generator at the top and a shallow pool at the bottom—this defunct hydroelectric facility supplied pressurized water to Monterey Bay Golf & Country Club from the late 1920s until the area became Monterey Bay Heights, leaving the dam to rot away and become the 100-year-old landmark it is today. MATHEW CHIPMAN
Best Music Served With Mead
BARGETTO WINERY
In business since 1933, Bargetto Winery pulls out the stops when it comes to wine and hospitality. Bargetto has spacious indoor and outdoor areas for folks to enjoy both public and private soirees. The Music in the Cellars events are a blast—with wine by the glass, food trucks and no cover charge. Fancy a glass of mead instead of wine? Under its Chaucer’s label, Bargetto brews different kinds, including Raspberry, Pomegranate and even a sparkling mead. JOSIE COWDEN
Best Executive Shuttle Out of Surf City
HIGHWAY 17 EXPRESS
The 17 Express is fast. (Arrival happens in under an hour.) It’s affordable. (Rate runs $7 flat, bring change.) It’s convenient. (Departures happen every hour weekends and midday weekdays, and more frequently weekday morning, afternoon and evenings.) And it’s also an all-out portal to a world of options, since it plops riders at Diridon Station in San Jose. (From there you can connect with a train or bus just about anywhere in the greater West.) Visit scmtd.com. MARK C. ANDERSON
